Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, significantly impacting their quality of life. As an orthopaedic surgeon, I often see patients struggling with joint pain and stiffness caused by arthritis. Understanding the basics of this condition can empower you to take proactive steps toward relief and improved joint health.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints, which can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. While there are over 100 different types of arthritis, the three most common forms are:
Osteoarthritis (OA): Often called “wear-and-tear arthritis,” osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This form of arthritis develops after a joint injury, such as a fracture, dislocation, or severe ligament sprain. Even with proper healing, the trauma can lead to long-term cartilage damage, resulting in arthritis years after the injury.
What Causes Arthritis?
The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type, but common risk factors include:
- Age: Arthritis is more common as people age.
- Genetics: A family history of arthritis may increase your risk.
- Injury: Joint injuries can lead to arthritis later in life.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, particularly the knees, hips, and lower back.
- Autoimmune Conditions: In autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, immune system dysfunction plays a key role in attacking and breaking down the joint.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The symptoms of arthritis can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after inactivity
- Swelling or tenderness around the joints
- A grating sensation or clicking sound when moving the joint
- Reduced range of motion/joint contracture
- Warmth or redness over the affected joint (common in inflammatory arthritis)
How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing arthritis typically involves:
Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, family history, and lifestyle.
Physical Examination: Checking for swelling, redness, range of motion, and stability testing.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, advanced imaging (CTs and MRIs), or ultrasounds can provide more detail about the joint damage or inflammation.
Lab Tests: Blood tests can identify markers of inflammation or autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment Options for Arthritis
The goal in treating arthritis is to help manage symptoms and improve joint function:
- Lifestyle Changes: Weight management helps reduce joint stress, and low-impact exercises like swimming, biking, or yoga help maintain mobility. A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids is also beneficial.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs. For rheumatoid arthritis, there are additional prescription medications, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Turmeric and other supplements also may be considered.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design exercises to strengthen stabilizing muscles around the joint and improve flexibility.
- Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may help reduce pain and inflammation in specific joints. Biologic injections such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may be considered as an alternative and safer option than steroid injections.
Advanced Care Solutions
For advanced arthritis, joint replacement surgery, such as shoulder replacement, can provide significant relief and restore mobility. In my practice as a fellowship-trained board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, I offer a range of joint replacement surgeries, including shoulder replacements (anatomic and reverse total shoulder replacements) and elbow replacements.
Arthritis management is a lifelong commitment to joint health. Regular checkups with an orthopaedic specialist can help monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Modifying activity to avoid exercises that may exacerbate pain while staying active and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial strategies for managing arthritis effectively and protecting your joints from injury.
When to Seek Expert Care
If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain or stiffness that interferes with your daily life, it’s time to consult an orthopaedic specialist. Early intervention can slow the progression of arthritis and help you maintain an active lifestyle.
Arthritis does not have to define your life. If you’re in the greater Dallas area and dealing with joint pain, reach out to my team. Please contact my office at Carrell Clinic in Dallas or Frisco to schedule your appointment by calling (214) 720-9338. We can work together to develop a personalized plan to keep you moving and living the life you love.
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